A Creative Twist on Two Classic Favorites
When the savory decadence of crab cakes meets the crispy, crunchy perfection of egg rolls, you get the ultimate appetizer fusion: Crab Cake Egg Rolls. This innovative creation blends the rich, buttery flavor of fresh crab meat with the golden, fried crunch of a traditional egg roll wrapper. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, cooking for the holidays, or just treating yourself to something special, these egg rolls deliver in every way.
Why Crab Cake Egg Rolls Are Your Next Must-Try Appetizer
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Elegant yet easy: Sophisticated flavor that’s simple to make.
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Perfect for any occasion: Great for holidays, brunches, or game days.
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Irresistibly crispy: Golden-brown and crunchy on the outside, moist and tender inside.
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Crowd-pleaser: Loved by seafood fans and foodies alike.
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Make-ahead friendly: Prep in advance and fry when ready to serve.
Ingredients for the Best Crab Cake Egg Rolls
For the Filling:
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1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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1 egg, lightly beaten
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
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1/3 cup finely diced red bell pepper
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1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus more if needed)
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Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
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12 egg roll wrappers
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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Vegetable oil for frying
For Dipping Sauce (Optional but Recommended):
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1/2 cup mayo
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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1 teaspoon hot sauce or sriracha
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Crab Cake Egg Rolls
Step 1: Make the Crab Cake Filling
In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, beaten egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, hot sauce, bell pepper, and green onions. Add panko breadcrumbs and mix until the filling holds together but remains moist. Avoid overmixing to preserve the texture of the crab.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape). Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of crab cake mixture near the bottom. Fold the bottom point over the filling, then fold in both sides, and roll up tightly. Seal the top edge with egg wash. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add egg rolls in batches and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Chill until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve and Impress
Serve the hot crab cake egg rolls immediately with your zesty dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and lemon wedges for presentation.
Expert Tips for Irresistible Crab Cake Egg Rolls
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Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
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Don’t overfill the wrappers—too much filling can cause them to burst while frying.
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Seal tightly and use egg wash to prevent them from opening in the fryer.
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Preheat oil properly and maintain temperature to ensure even frying.
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Drain thoroughly on paper towels to keep them crisp.
Variations and Creative Additions
Spicy Cajun Crab Cake Egg Rolls
Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and chopped jalapeños to the filling for a bold, spicy kick.
Asian-Inspired Version
Swap Old Bay for soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, and serve with sweet chili sauce or wasabi mayo.
Air Fryer Option
Lightly brush egg rolls with oil and cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway for even crisping.
Mini Crab Cake Bites
Cut wrappers in half for smaller, bite-sized rolls—perfect for cocktail parties or tasting menus.
What to Serve with Crab Cake Egg Rolls
These egg rolls are versatile and can be paired with:
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Crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Coleslaw for a classic seafood combo
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Grilled corn or roasted vegetables
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Champagne or white wine for an upscale touch
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Iced tea or sparkling lemonade for casual gatherings
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Why Everyone Falls in Love with Crab Cake Egg Rolls
This appetizer checks every box: crispy, creamy, flavorful, and fun. It’s the kind of dish that draws attention at any gathering, gets devoured within minutes, and leaves people asking for the recipe. Crab Cake Egg Rolls are proof that great things happen when cultures and flavors collide in the kitchen.
They’re more than an appetizer—they're a statement of culinary creativity, perfect for those who love to wow with their cooking.
